Governor DeSantis Appoints New Members to Monroe County Housing Authority

Tallahassee, FL – Governor Ron DeSantis has recently announced the appointment of five new members to the Monroe County Housing Authority. The board, responsible for overseeing housing initiatives and development projects in the county, welcomes Aaron Castillo, William Gonzalez, Linda Hinchcliffe, Patrick Labrada, and Ailton Lopez.

Aaron Castillo, the Director of Key West Mortuary and Cremation Center, brings with him 20 years of experience serving on the Housing Authority and also holds the position of Chair at the Bahama Village Redevelopment Authority. He obtained his associate degree from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service.

William Gonzalez, a Senior Account Manager at Bright View Landscaping, is an active member of the community. He currently serves as the President of the Marathon Lions Club and has previously been on the executive board of the Crane Point Board. Prior to his current role, he managed Gonzalez Brothers Landscaping, Inc.

Linda Hinchcliffe, retired from her position as the Director of Administration for the Monroe County Housing Authority, is also appointed to the board. She now dedicates her time to community involvement, holding the position of Chair of Membership at the Key West Lions Club and being a former member of the Monroe County Personnel Association. Hinchcliffe has attended the College of the Florida Keys.

Patrick Labrada, the Owner and Mortgage Broker at Southernmost Financial Corporation, brings his expertise to the table. He is a member of the City of Key West Utility Board, a former President and current member of the Rotary Club of Key West, and has previously served as a Monroe County School Board member. Labrada holds a bachelor’s degree from Bethany College.

Ailton Lopez, a Bartender and Mixologist for the Islamorada Florida Keys Resort Collection, has represented the resident members of the Monroe County Housing Authority for 12 years. Recognized for his outstanding service in the hospitality industry, Lopez received the “Recognition of Service Excellence” Award from the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association in 2023.